North Carolina EMT State Practice Exam

What is the term for collapsed alveoli?

1. Atelectasis

2. Bronchitis

3. Emphysema

4. Pneumonia

The correct answer is: Atelectasis

Atelectasis is the term used to describe collapsed alveoli, which occurs when air sacs in the lungs become deflated. This can lead to decreased oxygen exchange and can result from various factors, including obstruction of the airway, pressure from outside the lung, or lung infections. Understanding atelectasis is crucial for EMTs, as recognizing the signs and symptoms can help in providing appropriate treatment or intervention. Other conditions listed, such as bronchitis, involve inflammation of the bronchial tubes and can lead to breathing difficulties, but they do not specifically refer to collapsed alveoli. Emphysema is a form of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) characterized by damage to the air sacs in the lungs, typically resulting in a reduced ability to breathe, but it does not specifically indicate that the alveoli are collapsed. Pneumonia involves inflammation of the lung tissue due to infection and can lead to fluid accumulation but does not directly define collapsed alveoli either. Therefore, the accurate terminology for collapsed alveoli is indeed atelectasis.